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Cork Insulation and Fluid Geometry in a Guesthouse Surrounded by Olive Groves

Authors:
Suzan Amato, Ida Jonassen
Cork Insulation and Fluid Geometry in a Guesthouse Surrounded by Olive Groves
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With its fluid geometries and use of local materials like cork and limestone, the guesthouse harmoniously blends into the olive grove landscape, creating a serene environment for culinary exploration and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fluid geometries reflect the surrounding landscape, enhancing visual integration.
02
Cork insulation is utilized for its sustainability and thermal performance.
03
A central courtyard features an olive tree, symbolizing the region's heritage.
04
Recycled glass tiles complement natural materials, supporting eco-friendly practices.
05
Large glass facades maximize natural light and connect indoor and outdoor spaces.

**Project Overview**
Located in Barreiras, Portugal, Hora de Ouro is designed as a guest house focused on the art of olive oil tasting. The project aims to integrate architecture with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing a connection to nature through its design. The building's form and layout respond to the topography, allowing for expansive views of the countryside while enhancing the user experience.

**Spatial Interaction and Design Language**
The architectural concept features gentle contours and dynamic arches that reflect the undulating hills and olive groves characteristic of the region. This approach fosters a sense of continuity between the structure and its environment, employing an architectural language that combines modern forms with elements inspired by local flora. Key design elements include arched entrances and substantial glass windows, which create a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. A rooftop pool enhances this connection by providing a vantage point from which guests can appreciate the surrounding landscape.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**
Construction materials have been selected for their local significance and sustainability. Limestone anchors the structure with durability, while oak wood and cork offer warmth and insulation derived from regional resources. Olive tree wood is utilized in finishes and furnishings, honoring craftsmanship traditions. The design incorporates terracotta for aesthetic continuity and recycled bottle glass tiles to enhance light and sustainability. Passive energy solutions, including natural ventilation and strategic solar orientation, further underscore a commitment to environmental responsibility, minimizing energy consumption and promoting ecological harmony within the architectural framework.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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